Permission to get even
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| Cherry picking is not permitted |
I recall in my early Christian days, being incensed by the words and or actions of others. At the first possible opportunity, I would get out my Bible, go to the concordance at the back and find the word that described my sentiments: anger, resentment, retaliation, justice, fight, judgement, wrath. Oh it felt so good to locate the word(s), find scripture to correspond to my emotional upsets, and search for justification for possible retaliation, vengeance, and at the very least, some kind of retribution in the form of mean words or matching actions to the ones I had experienced. I wanted God to give me permission to get even…
The gavel came down
What did I discover, you ask? I learned from scripture that my heart had blackened and that my mind was working against Gods Word. Instead of the yes from God I sought, to give back what I had gotten, I received conviction of my own sins. The gavel came down and it was my head and hands that got thumped. God pointed out to me too, that I mustn’t cherry pick. I must refrain from selecting portions of The Bible that prove a point that I want to make.
I love to learn how to love
It is a struggle dear reader, to not get mad and than, get even; to refrain from retaliation when disappointment and hurt have me wondering about justice and fairness? I am no different from the average bear… I get just as irritated as the next person when treated badly or challenged in ways that are unexpected and undeserved. But I have to grin as I tell you this: I love to learn how to love! I am so astounded at Gods mercy in my life, because he teaches me his ways everyday that I ask him to! He is refining me and I have a ways to go but, but dear one, it is all worth it. To love when love is not flowing freely my way is beyond my comprehension. To be able to pray for someone that perhaps wishes me ill is some kind of wonderful.
My plea for understanding
I asked God recently, why God, why do I still love him? He answered my plea for understanding quite simply with this “Because I still love him”.
Book of Love
To love past pain, beyond the now into eternity is faithful, hopeful, and fulfilling. I continue to learn the art of love from my Master. It is, indeed, a relief to learn from the Book of Love, putting wrath aside for much better fare.
